DNV GL Approves GTT Membrane LNG Bunker Barge

By Eric Haun

Tuesday, June 17, 2014

GTT NA's membrane LNG bunker barge (Image courtesy of GTT NA)

Houston-based GTT North America (GTT NA), U.S. subsidiary of French engineering and technology company GTT (Gaztransport & Technigaz SA), has received an Approval in Principle from DNV GL for the design of a 2,200 cubic meter liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunker barge.

The distinctive design incorporates GTT’s proven membrane Cargo Containment System (CCS), which is utilized in roughly 70% of the global LNG carrier fleet and nearly 90% of LNG carrier projects on order.

“This Approval in Principle from DNV GL, the world’s largest class society and well known developer of technology enabling LNG as fuel for short sea shipping, is a major step forward in demonstrating the suitability of the GTT membrane systems for LNG storage and transportation within North American waters. The robust and highly competitive GTT solutions for the North American market complement the on-going price quotation with local shipyards,” said Aziz Bamik, GTT NA General Manager.

“The GTT membrane system provides more choice than just the Type C tank containment systems. It allows for better volumetric efficiency, which is a concern for ship types where sacrificing revenue-earning space for bunker is often a show-stopper,” commented Tony Teo, DNV GL’s Houston-based technology and business director.

The CCS selected for the barge is GTT’s proprietary Mark III Flex system, an enhancement of the Mark III system that allows for improved thermal and structural performance of the CCS. GTT said the Mark III membrane CCS consists of a cryogenic liner directly supported by the vessel’s inner hull, which allows for maximum volumetric utilization of the available cargo space. This liner is composed of a primary metallic membrane fastened atop a prefabricated insulation panel that includes a complete secondary membrane.